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    Criticism 'spurred on Spaniards'
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        Vienna, 26 June 2008
      
    
      
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        Luis Aragones and Cesc Fabregas say Spain have been spurred on by a desire to prove critics wrong at Euro 2008.
      
    
      
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The Spaniards beat Russia 3-0 on Thursday to reach their first major final in 24 years - against Germany.

      
    
      
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Coach Aragones said: "The criticism has taught me a lot, except when I was insulted. It has stimulated me and encouraged me to do things better."

      
    
      
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Midfielder Fabregas added: "There are always doubts. Nobody was expecting us to be where we are now."

      
    
    
  

  
    
      
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Aragones, 69, has been a controversial figure as Spain coach but now stands one game away from emulating José Villalonga, who led Spain to their sole tournament success by winning the 1964 European Championship.

      
    
      
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"When we came to the tournament we realised we had a good team and we could get far,'' added Aragones. 

      
    
      
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"We had some hard moments but we have always believed in ourselves. We have a great team.'' 

      
    
      
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Spain outplayed Russia in the second half in Vienna, although Aragones is aware that Germany, with six major tournament wins, will offer a far sterner challenge.

      
    
      
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"We weren't doing very well in the first half against Russia but in the second half we were able to play more freely and rediscover our game," he stated.

      
    
      
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"We are in the final and the adversary is Germany. It's a hell of a task."

      
    
      
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With striker David Villa set to miss the final because of a thigh injury, Arsenal's Fabregas is likely to start the game, having impressed off the bench in the tournament.

      
    
      
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"With Cesc we had another midfielder and it was difficult to control," said Aragones.

      
    
      
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"I know how well he can perform, he is a great player, like others in our squad.

      
    
      
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"Cesc is 21, he and other players have acquired the experience that you might have of an older player.

      
    
      
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"This is something that matters for the 2008 tournament but I'm sure it will matter for the World Cup in two years as well."

      
    
      
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Fabregas, who set up Spain's second and third goals against Russia, said their toughest test lay ahead.

      
    
      
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"We came here to win the title and the most difficult match is to come," he commented.

      
    
      
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"We've had difficult moments but we've shown great mental strength and togetherness. That is the key."

      
    
      
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"Will I play in the final? Well Luis Aragones is the boss and I will be there if he needs me."
      
    
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Story from BBC SPORT:<br>
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/sport2/hi/football/euro_2008/spain/7371384.stm<br>
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Published: 2008/06/27 08:42:47 GMT<br>
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